Addressing Bullying in Schools: Strategies, Structures and Scaffolding

Abstract

Addressing Bullying in Schools: Strategies, Structures and Scaffolding is comparative multiple case study of the empowering effects of professional development on teachers to manage bullying, using two educational drama techniques, forum theatre and process drama, as well as peer teaching. This thesis is based on the findings from three years of an action research project called Acting Against Bullying, which was conducted by Griffith University in several Queensland high schools and primary schools between 2004 and 2006. The main focus of the dissertation is three key schools; Southside State High School, North Beachside State High School and Westside State High School. It also draws on the findings at several of the other participating schools to ensure that the findings are grounded in significant data and to reinforce their validity. This data is presented as a collection of themes embedded in each case study, based on the findings and insights that emerged from the drama, peer teaching and inservices that were held for the teachers. The data is conveyed as a narrative account to highlight the multiple voices of the participants and to enhance the natural approach of research from an active researcher perspective.